Variability In Surgical Techniques Research Articles

A multicenter evaluation of penile curvature correction in men with Peyronie's disease undergoing inflatable penile prosthesis placement.

Inflatable penile prosthesis (IPP) insertion is recommended for the treatment of patients with Peyronie's disease (PD) and significant erectile dysfunction (ED); adjunctive procedures can be used for residual curvature after IPP placement. To assess the management of penile curvature correction in PD patients undergoing IPP procedures within a large multinational, multicenter cohort. A retrospective analysis was conducted on PD patients treated with IPP by 11 experienced prosthetic surgeons. Demographic, intraoperative, and postoperative data were analyzed to assess the improvement in penile curvature following IPP, including adjunctive correction techniques such as manual modeling, tunica albuginea plication, and grafting. Curvature correction achieved after IPP placement and adjunctive procedures. For 499 PD patients treated with IPP, median age was 62.0 [30.0, 91.0] years with mean follow-up of 16.5 (SD = 12.9) months. The mean preoperative curvature was 39.4° (SD = 17.8°), with dorsal curvature being most common. Among our cohort, 17.6% had IPP-only placement, while the majority of 82.4% patients underwent IPP along with adjunctive correction procedures. Specifically, manual modeling (with/without the "scratch" technique) was used in 74.7% of cases, tunica albuginea plication in 4.8%, grafting in 2%, and combined grafting and modeling in 0.8%. Patients who underwent grafting generally had fewer preoperative comorbidities and more severe preoperative curvatures of 60.0° [45.0°, 70.0°]. Grafting also provided the highest median curvature correction of 55.0° [48.8°, 73.8°], (P < .001). Plication achieved a median curvature correction of 40.0° [28.8°, 41.2°], whereas modeling resulted in a median curvature reduction of 26.0° [20.0°, 39.5°], (P < .001). We observed that grafting, though less frequently used, provided more curvature correction in severe PD cases undergoing IPP. Large cohort size and multinational participation are strengths, though retrospective design and general variability in surgical techniques are limitations. Adjunctive techniques, including grafting, plication, and modeling provide options for tailoring curvature correction to disease severity and patient characteristics. Future prospective studies are needed to standardize and evaluate the comparative outcomes of these techniques.

Optimizing debridement and implant retention in acute periprosthetic joint infections.

Periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) represents a complex challenge in orthopaedic surgery associated with substantial morbidity and healthcare expenditures. The debridement, antibiotics, and implant retention (DAIR) protocol is a viable treatment, offering several advantages over exchange arthroplasty. With the evolution of treatment strategies, considerable efforts have been directed towards enhancing the efficacy of DAIR, including the development of a phased debridement protocol for acute PJI management. This article provides an in-depth analysis of DAIR, presenting the outcomes of single-stage, two-stage, and repeated DAIR procedures. It delves into the challenges faced, including patient heterogeneity, pathogen identification, variability in surgical techniques, and antibiotics selection. Moreover, critical factors that influence the decision-making process between single- and two-stage DAIR protocols are addressed, including team composition, timing of the intervention, antibiotic regimens, and both anatomical and implant-related considerations. By providing a comprehensive overview of DAIR protocols and their clinical implications, this annotation aims to elucidate the advancements, challenges, and potential future directions in the application of DAIR for PJI management. It is intended to equip clinicians with the insights required to effectively navigate the complexities of implementing DAIR strategies, thereby facilitating informed decision-making for optimizing patient outcomes.

Assessing the Current State of Microtia Reconstruction in the United States.

Microtia is a congenital ear deformity with variability in surgical techniques and tools across surgeons pursuing an autologous reconstruction. Different techniques have emerged over time, and surgeons opt for various tools to aid in creating the complex three-dimensional cartilaginous ear framework. The purpose of this study was to understand the current state of microtia reconstruction in the United States. Microtia surgeons affiliated with the nonprofit, Ear Community, were invited to complete a 20-item survey. Data were collected on demographic information regarding surgeons, considerations when approaching microtia repair in patients, and techniques and comfort levels. Additional data were collected on materials, tools, flaps, and skin grafts used for reconstruction. Twenty-two surgeons responded to the survey reporting 3 different techniques learned and utilized in practice including the Brent, Nagata, and Firmin techniques. About two-thirds of surgeons were "extremely comfortable" with their techniques and one-third were "extremely uncomfortable" or "somewhat uncomfortable." Most respondents reported using a tunneled temporoparietal fascial flap or a posterior fascial flap along with a full-thickness skin graft for the second stage (ear elevation). Most surgeons utilized a combination of scalpels and gouges when carving the ear framework along with sutures or wire. This study highlights the current state of autogenous microtia reconstruction underscoring the variability in approaches and preferences. These data may guide future directions that aim to improve patient outcomes. Surgeons may gain insight into different practices and choose to adopt different aspects to enhance their surgical approach.

Patient-Specific Surgical Correction of Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis: A Systematic Review.

The restoration of sagittal alignment is fundamental to the surgical correction of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS). Despite established techniques, some patients present with inadequate postoperative thoracic kyphosis (TK), which may increase the risk of proximal junctional kyphosis (PJK) and imbalance. There is a lack of knowledge concerning the effectiveness of patient-specific rods (PSR) with measured sagittal curves in achieving a TK similar to that planned in AIS surgery, the factors influencing this congruence, and the incidence of PJK after PSR use. This is a systematic review of all types of studies reporting on the PSR surgical correction of AIS, including research articles, proceedings, and gray literature between 2013 and December 2023. From the 28,459 titles identified in the literature search, 81 were assessed for full-text reading, and 7 studies were selected. These included six cohort studies and a comparative study versus standard rods, six monocentric and one multicentric, three prospective and four retrospective studies, all with a scientific evidence level of 4 or 3. They reported a combined total of 355 AIS patients treated with PSR. The minimum follow-up was between 4 and 24 months. These studies all reported a good match between predicted and achieved TK, with the main difference ranging from 0 to 5 degrees, p > 0.05, despite the variability in surgical techniques and the rods' properties. There was no proximal junctional kyphosis, whereas the current rate from the literature is between 15 and 46% with standard rods. There are no specific complications related to PSR. The exact role of the type of implants is still unknown. The preliminary results are, therefore, encouraging and support the use of PSR in AIS surgery.

Correction of Thoracic Hypokyphosis in Adolescent Scoliosis Using Patient-Specific Rod Templating

The emphasis of surgical correction in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis (AIS) has been given to coronal plane correction of deformity without addressing the sagittal plane thoracic hypokyphosis. Thoracic hypokyphosis has been implicated in cervical malalignment, increased incidence of proximal and distal junctional kyphosis, spinopelvic incongruence, and increased incidence of low back pain. The surgeon, variability in surgical technique, and difference in rod contouring have been implicated as factors resulting in less-than-adequate restoration of thoracic kyphosis. We hypothesised that predictable correction of hypokyphosis could be achieved by using a reproducible surgical technique with patient-specific rod templating. We describe a technique of correction of AIS with dual differential rod contouring (DDC) using patient-specific rod templating to guide intraoperative rod contouring. The pre- and post-operative radiographs of 61 patients treated using this technique were reviewed to compare correction of hypokyphosis achieved with that predicted. Analysis revealed that we achieved a kyphosis within +/- 5.5 of the predicted value. The majority of patients had a post-operative kyphosis within the optimal range of 20-40 degrees. We concluded that patient-specific rod templating in DDC helps surgeons to consistently achieve sagittal correction in AIS close to a predicted value while achieving a very good coronal plane correction.

Hospital Variation in Surgical Technique for Repair of Uncomplicated Gastroschisis.

Practices in surgical repair of uncomplicated gastroschisis are varied. Data regarding hospital volume, surgical technique, clinical outcomes, and costs remain limited. Neonatal patients with uncomplicated gastroschisis were identified using the 2015-2019 National Readmissions Database. Hospital volume tertiles were determined, and sutureless or fascial repair techniques were enumerated. High volume centers (HVC) comprised the top tertile. Hospital-level variability in surgical technique was determined. Adjusted multivariable analysis was performed to compare clinical outcomes and costs among HVC and lower-volume centers and among repair techniques. Of an estimated 2903 hospitalizations meeting inclusion criteria, 23.5% occurred at HVC. There was 42.4% variation among sutureless and fascial repair techniques across all hospitals. Among HVC and lower-volume centers, there were no significant differences in rates of 30-day readmission or complication; however, HVC were associated with greater cost and length of stay. Those with codes for fascial repair technique experienced greater lengths of stay, costs, and rates of complication. Codes for surgical repair technique for uncomplicated gastroschisis vary widely, while outcomes are equivalent across strata of hospital volume. Those with codes for sutureless technique were associated with favorable clinical outcomes, irrespective of hospital volume. Guidelines for management of uncomplicated gastroschisis should account for hospital volume, variation in technique, outcomes, and resource utilization.

Variability in surgical techniques for cochlear implantation: an international survey study

Objective This study aimed to gain insight into current practices regarding the surgical techniques used for positioning and fixation of internal components of the cochlear implant. Methods A questionnaire focused on surgical techniques used for cochlear implantation was distributed among 441 cochlear implant surgeons. Descriptive statistics were reported. Results The questionnaire was completed by 59 surgeons working in 13 different countries. The most preferred incision shapes were the S-shape (41%) and the C-shape (36%). The preferred implantation angle for the receiver/stimulator device was either 45° (64%) or 60° (30%), relative to the Frankfurter Horizontal Plane. Most respondents used a drilled bony well with (42%) or without a subperiosteal pocket (31%) to fixate the receiver/stimulator device. All respondents used the facial recess approach. Most used the round window insertion technique to enter the scala tympani (73%). Approximately half of the respondents preferred the lateral wall electrode array, whereas the other half preferred the perimodiolar electrode array. During their career, most (86%) changed their technique towards structure preservation and minimizing trauma. Conclusion This study indicates variability in the surgical techniques used to position and fixate the internal components of the cochlear implant. Additionally, surgical preference transits towards structure preservation and minimal invasiveness.

Lymph Node Yield and Ratio in Selective and Modified Radical Neck Dissection in Head and Neck Cancer-Impact on Oncological Outcome.

Simple SummaryHead and neck cancers metastasize into the neck lymph nodes. The surgical removal of neck lymph nodes (i.e., neck dissection) is commonly performed before or after radiation therapy. The most common types of neck dissection include selective (with removal of nodes at risk) and radical modified (with removal of all neck lymph nodes). Given the variability in surgical techniques, quality and prognostic markers for neck dissection are missing. Lymph node ratio (LNR: number of metastatic nodes/total number of nodes harvested) has been previously suggested as a quality and prognostic marker. Here, we assess the impact of prior irradiation on the lymph node yield (LNY) as well as the role of LNR in both selective and modified radical neck dissection. We found that previous irradiation to the neck leads to a reduced LNY; there is no change in LNR. LNR has a prognostic impact in modified radical neck dissection but not in selective neck dissection.Background: Lymph node metastases are associated with poor prognosis in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Neck dissection (ND) is often performed prior to or after (chemo)radiation (CRT) and is an integral part of HNSCC treatment strategies. The impact of CRT delivered prior to ND on lymph node yield (LNY) and lymph node ratio (LNR) has not been comprehensively investigated. Material and methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted from January 2014 to 30 June 2019 at the University Hospital of Bern, Switzerland. We included 252 patients with primary HNSCC who underwent NDs either before or after CRT. LNY and LNR were compared in patients undergoing ND prior to or after CRT. A total of 137 and 115 patients underwent modified radical ND (levels I to V) and selective ND, respectively. The impact of several features on survival and disease control was assessed. Results: Of the included patients, 170 were male and 82 were females. There were 141 primaries from the oral cavity, 55 from the oropharynx, and 28 from the larynx. ND specimens showed a pN0 stage in 105 patients and pN+ in 147. LNY, but LNR was not significantly higher in patients undergoing upfront ND than in those after CRT (median: 38 vs. 22, p < 0.0001). Cox hazard ratio regression showed that an LNR ≥ 6.5% correlated with poor overall (HR 2.42, CI 1.12-4.89, p = 0.014) and disease-free survival (HR 3.416, CI 1.54-754, p = 0.003) in MRND. Conclusion: ND after CRT leads to significantly reduced LNY. An LNR ≥6.5% is an independent risk factor for decreased overall, disease-free, and distant metastasis-free survival for MRND.

Level of Evidence on Platelet-rich Plasma in Plastic Surgery.

Background:Despite the increased popularity of platelet-rich plasma (PRP) in plastic surgery, there is no detailed analysis on the level of evidence on PRP use in plastic surgery. As the number of applications of PRP in plastic surgery increases, it is important for plastic surgeons to understand the scientific and validated evidence behind its use. Therefore, we performed a literature review to identify current level of evidence on platelet-rich plasma in plastic surgery.Methods:We performed a computerized search of platelet-rich plasma in plastic surgery using the MEDLINE, Cochran Library, and EMBASE databases. Data regarding the type of study, PRP application, and outcomes were collected. Then, the level of evidence was assigned using the American Society of Plastic Surgeons Level of Evidence Rating.Results:Our search identified 105 articles, and about 78.1% of studies were lower-quality studies: 37 level-III articles (35.2%), 32 level-IV articles (30.5%), and 13 level-V articles (12.4%). There were only 6 level-I articles and 17 level-II studies. Level-I studies were on facial rejuvenation using a laser, carpal tunnel release, cleft lip repair, trauma wounds, breast reconstruction using latissimus dorsi, and hair regrowth.Conclusions:Our review of the literature shows that the level of evidence on PRP use in plastic surgery is low (21.9%). Nevertheless, we believe level-III to level-V studies are still valuable, as performing high-level quality studies in plastic surgery is difficult due to variability in surgical techniques, experiences, and materials.

Demineralized Bone Matrix in Spine Surgery: A Review of Current Applications and Future Trends

Graft augmentation for spinal fusion is an area of continued interest, with a wide variety of available products lacking clear recommendations regarding appropriate use. While iliac crest autograft has long been considered the "gold standard", suboptimal fusion rates along with harvest-related concerns continue to drive the need for graft alternatives. There are now multiple options of products with various characteristics that are available. These include demineralized bone matrix (DBM) and demineralized bone fibers (DBF), which have been used increasingly to promote spine fusion. The purpose of this review is to provide an updated narrative on the use of DBM/DBF in spine surgery. Literature review. The clinical application of DBM in spine surgery has evolved since its introduction in the mid-1900s. Early preclinical studies demonstrated its effectiveness in promoting fusion. When used in the cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spine, more recent clinical data suggest similar rates of fusion compared with autograft, although clinical studies are primarily limited to level III or IV evidence with few level I studies. However, significant variability in surgical technique and type of product used in the literature limits its interpretation and overall application. DBM and DBF are bone graft options in spine surgery. Most commonly used as graft extenders, they have the ability to increase the volume of traditional grafting techniques while potentially inducing new bone formation. While the literature supports good fusion rates when used in the lumbar spine and when used with adjuvant cages or additional grafting techniques in the cervical spine, care should be taken when using as a stand-alone product. As new literature emerges, DBM and DBF can be a useful method in a surgeon's armamentarium for fusion-based procedures.

Early success of the arthroscopic-assisted locked loop suprapectoral biceps tenodesis

There is wide variability in surgical technique for biceps tenodesis. Prior biomechanical studies have demonstrated superior ultimate and fatigue strength with a Krakow-type locked loop when compared with simple suture and lasso-loop configurations; however, this had not yet been clinically studied. The purpose of this study was to assess the short-term results an arthroscopic-assisted locked loop (ALL) suprapectoral biceps tenodesis technique. All patients who underwent an ALL suprapectoral biceps tenodesis by a single surgeon from 2012 and 2019 with a minimum of 12-month follow-up were analyzed. Data collected included demographics, surgical indications, concomitant operative procedures, and postoperative complications of anterior shoulder "groove" pain, "Popeye deformity," biceps muscle cramping pain, and need for revision surgery. Forty patients who underwent an ALL suprapectoral biceps tenodesis met inclusion criteria. Patients were 55.6 ± 8.6 years of age, consisting of 28 men (57%) and 21 women (43%). The median follow-up was 19.3 months. At the latest follow-up, 1 (2%) patient had anterior shoulder "groove" pain, and no patients had a Popeye deformity or biceps muscle cramping. There were no revision biceps tenodesis procedures. The ALL suprapectoral biceps tenodesis technique results in a low incidence of postoperative complications. At a short-term follow-up of 1 year, no patients had reoperations or revisions for failed biceps tenodesis. Groove pain was nearly absent in this series of patients.

National survey of surgical practices: Sacropexy in France in 2019.

Sacropexy is a reference surgical treatment for pelvic organ prolapse in women. The great variability in surgical techniques for this procedure is a source of bias that complicates analysis of the results of trials assessing it. Using the French guidelines issued in 2016 by the SCGP, AFU, SIFUD-PP, and CNGOF as a reference, we sought to inventory the surgical practices of the surgeons who perform these procedures. In November 2018, a questionnaire about the technical aspects of this procedure was distributed by email to the French physicians performing it. It was distributed to members of several professional societies (CNGOF, SCGP, and SIFUD) and to gynecologists practicing in clinics owned by the ELSAN group. Of the 273 responders, 92% reported that they perform most operations laparoscopically. Overall, 83% of gynecologic surgeons used polypropylene prostheses (mesh); 38% routinely placed a posterior mesh, while the rest did so only in cases of clinical rectocele with anorectal symptoms. A concomitant hysterectomy was performed by 51% of respondents when the uterus was bulky and/or associated with substantial uterine prolapse. Finally, half the surgeons suggested the placement of a suburethral sling for women with stress urinary incontinence. Although practices are largely consistent with the most recent guidelines, surgical techniques vary widely between surgeons, both in France and internationally.

P108. Propensity-matched comparison of open, navigated and robotic-assisted TLIF

BACKGROUND CONTEXT Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) techniques have evolved from open approaches with dissection to the lateral gutters, to navigation to improve pedicle screw placement accuracy, to robotic assistance to further minimize soft tissue dissection. It is unclear if these technologies improve process measures and minimize variability in surgical technique. PURPOSE To determine if Blood Loss, Operative Time and Length of Stay will be lower with less variability with Robotic, followed by Navigated and Open TLIF. STUDY DESIGN/SETTING Propensity matched longitudinal cohort. PATIENT SAMPLE Consecutive series of patients undergoing primary single-level TLIF. OUTCOME MEASURES Blood Loss, Operative Time and Length of Stay. METHODS A consecutive series of patients undergoing primary single-level Robotic-Assisted TLIFs (RA-TLIF, N=40) were propensity matched to patients undergoing Navigated (NavTLIF, N=51) and Open TLIF (OpTLIF, N=44) using age, sex, smoking status, BMI and ASA grade. RESULTS After propensity matching, 34 cases were included in each cohort. OR Time (184±37 vs 197±48 vs 219±50, p=0.007) was lowest and had the least variability in RA-TLIFs followed by NavTLIF and OpTLIF. Length of Stay (1.5±0.9 vs 2.5±1.2 vs 4.2±1.7, p=0.000), estimated blood loss (254±259 vs 325±288 vs 489±328, p=0.004), drain output (234±257 vs 250±137 vs 653±407, p CONCLUSIONS Operative time was lowest and had the least variability in RA-TLIFs followed by NavTLIF and OpTLIF. Length of stay, blood loss, drain output, total visible blood loss, and total volume of blood products transfused was lowest in RA-TLIFs followed by NavTLIF and OpTLIF. FDA DEVICE/DRUG STATUS This abstract does not discuss or include any applicable devices or drugs.

IFSO (International Federation for Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders) Consensus Conference Statement on One-Anastomosis Gastric Bypass (OAGB-MGB): Results of a Modified Delphi Study.

One-anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB-MGB) is currently the third performed primary bariatric surgical procedure worldwide. However, the procedure is hampered by numerous controversies and there is considerable variability in surgical technique, patient selection, and pre- and postoperative care among the surgeons performing this procedure. This paper reports the results of a modified Delphi consensus study organized by the International Federation for Surgery of Obesity and Metabolic Disorders (IFSO). Fifty-two internationally recognized bariatric experts from 28 countries convened for voting on 90 consensus statements over two rounds to identify those on which consensus could be reached. Inter-voter agreement of ≥ 70% was considered consensus, with voting participation ≥ 80% considered a robust vote. At least 70% consensus was achieved for 65 of the 90 questions (72.2% of the items), 61 during the first round of voting and an additional four in the second round. Where consensus was reached on a binary agree/disagree or yes/no item, there was agreement with the statement presented in 53 of 56 instances (94.6%). Where consensus was reached on a statement where options favorable versus unfavorable to OAGB-MGB were provided, including statements in which OAGB-MGB was compared to another procedure, the response option favorable to OAGB-MGB was selected in 13 of 23 instances (56.5%). Although there is general agreement that the OAGB-MGB is an effective and usually safe option for the management of patients with obesity or severe obesity, numerous areas of non-consensus remain in its use. Further empirical data are needed.

Sex-Based Differences in Patient-Reported Outcomes After Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair.

Background:Rotator cuff repair is one of the most common surgical procedures performed on the shoulder. Previous studies have indicated that pain and disability can vary significantly between patients with similarly appearing rotator cuff tears on diagnostic imaging. Prior literature has compared functional outcomes between operative and nonoperative treatments as well as variability in surgical techniques. However, few studies have examined postoperative outcomes based on patient factors such as sex.Purpose:To compare patient-reported outcomes after rotator cuff repair between men and women.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 2.Methods:A total of 283 patients (153 male, 130 female) who underwent primary arthroscopic rotator cuff repair were included in this study; of those, 275 patients (97.2%) completed 1-year follow-up. Patient-reported pain visual analog scale (VAS), Veterans RAND 12-item Health Survey (VR-12 mental and physical components), American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES), and Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation (SANE) scores were collected preoperatively and at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year postoperatively using an electronic outcomes system.Results:Women reported higher VAS pain scores when compared with men preoperatively (P < .01) and at 2 weeks (P < .01), 6 weeks (P < .01), and 3 months (P = .02) postoperatively. Additionally, women experienced a greater overall change in the mean VAS score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively (P < .01). The use of narcotic pain medication 2 weeks after surgery was greater in women (P = .032). Women had significantly lower preoperative VR-12 mental scores (P = .03) and experienced a greater increase in the mean VR-12 mental score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively (P < .01). Men had higher ASES scores preoperatively (P < .01) and at 3 months postoperatively (P < .01). Women experienced a greater overall change in the ASES score preoperatively when compared with 1 year postoperatively (P < .01).Conclusion:Women reported greater pain and decreased shoulder function compared with men during the initial 3 months after arthroscopic rotator cuff repair. There were no sex-based differences in patient-reported outcomes at 1-year follow-up. The results of this study indicate that there are sex-related differences in the early postoperative recovery of patients undergoing rotator cuff repair, contributing to postoperative expectations for both clinicians and patients alike.

Use of Thoracoscopic Traction to Repair Long-Gap Esophageal Atresia

Abstract Introduction: This video describes the use of thoracoscopic traction to repair a long-gap esophageal atresia (LGEA) in a newborn. There remains a large variability in surgical techniques a...

Giant incisional hernia containing a large renal cyst

Introduction Hernias are common surgical diseases. Incidence of incisional hernia depends upon the size and location of the former incision and ranges from 3 to 20 percent. In clinical practice the variability of surgical techniques for hernia repair is great and a wide range of publications are available. Surgery for renal cysts depends on whether they are classified simple or complex. Simple cysts are more common and the majority requires no treatment. Complex renal cysts are associated with an increased risk of malignancy. This is the first report on a giant incisional hernia containing bowl combined with a voluminous renal cyst. Case description An 80-year-old female diagnosed with a giant incisional hernia combined with a large left renal cyst was referred to our surgical department from a peripheral hospital for hernia repair. Physical examination showed a ventral incisional hernia (50x50cm) extending to the upper thigh with multiple skin lesions and clinical signs of obstipation. CT scan revealed two hernial orifices measuring 13cm and 4.5cm in diameter. The giant hernial sac contained not only incarcerated small and large bowl but also a large left renal cyst containing 3 litres of fluid. Results and Conclusions We performed a second median laparotomy with complete release of all abdominal adhesions. The renal cyst was resected and its base marsupialized. Hernia repair was achieved by both sided compartment separation as described by Ramirez combined with an intraperitoneal onlay mesh sized 40cmx60cm. Intraoperative measurement of creatinine in the cyst fluid revealed no connection to the urinary tract making further renal surgery unnecessary. By resecting the renal cyst, intraabdominal volume was markedly reduced allowing tension free abdominal wall reconstruction. Histological examination of the cyst, the hernial sacs and the resected skin revealed no surprising findings. Postoperative recovery was uneventful and drains were removed before discharge. Bowel movement started on the third postoperative day. Wound dehiscence was treated by negative pressure wound therapy and no recurrence has yet been detected two months postoperatively. Take home message Surgical repair of giant incisional hernias is challenging and is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Individual planning of abdominal wall reconstruction is key for successful treatment and is even the more important in complex hernias with loss of domain or accompanying intraabdominal pathologies.

Comparison of FDA safety and efficacy data for KAMRA and Raindrop corneal inlays.

To provide a side-by-side analysis of the summary of safety and effectiveness data (SSED) submitted to the FDA for the KAMRA and Raindrop corneal inlays for the correction of presbyopia. SSED reports submitted to the FDA for KAMRA and Raindrop were compared with respect to loss of corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA), adverse event rates, induction of astigmatism, retention of contrast sensitivity, stability of manifest refractive spherical equivalent (MRSE), and achieved monocular uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA) at 24mo. Totally 442/508 of KAMRA patients and 344/373 Raindrop patients remained enrolled in the clinical trials at 24mo. The proportion of KAMRA and Raindrop patients who lost ≥2 lines of CDVA at 24mo was 3.4% and 1%, respectively. The adverse event rate was comparable between the devices. No significant inductions of astigmatism were noted. Both technologies induced a transient myopic shift in MRSE followed by a hyperopic shift and subsequent stabilization. Totally 87% of KAMRA and 98% of Raindrop patients attained a monocular UNVA of J5 (20/40) or better at 24mo, 28% of KAMRA and 67% of Raindrop patients attained a monocular UNVA of J1 (20/20) or better at 24mo. Both devices can be considered safe and effective, however, the results of corneal inlay implantation are mixed, and long-term patient satisfaction will likely depend on subjective expectations about the capabilities of the inlays. Variability in surgical technique and postoperative care within and between the two clinical trials diminishes the comparative power of this article.

Tratamiento de la base apendicular por laparoscopia mediante el uso de endograpadoras: análisis de nuestros resultados

ObjectiveThe objective of this study is to analyse the results in our centre as regards the closure of the appendix stump in laparoscopic appendectomy using an endo-stapler. Material and methodsA retrospective analysis, collecting the demographic, clinical, and surgical technique variables, was conducted on laparoscopic appendectomies with section of the appendix base with an endo-stapler performed between January 2013 and March 2015. ResultsA total of 239 patients were included in the analysis. Complications were recorded in 41 patients, with a re-admission rate of 5%, and 2.5% of patients received further surgery. The mean post-surgical stay was 3.64 days. Discussion and conclusionsThe endo-stapler is a suitable technique in the closure of the appendix stump, as regards post-surgical hospital stay and complications. Despite the advantages of its use, the employment of other techniques, such as endo-loops, should be evaluated in non-complicated appendectomies.

A Review of Scleral Flap Shape on Trabeculectomy Outcomes

Introduction : Trabeculectomies are amongst the most common surgical procedures to lower intraocular pressure (IOP). Scleral flap dimensions are a key factor in influencing aqueous outflow and subsequent IOP reduction, especially in the early postoperative period. Despite the substantial diversity of scleral flap shapes that is used in practice, there is little information comparing outcomes between them. In this study, we review the literature on the uses and outcomes of various scleral flap shapes. Methods: A literature review was performed using the databases: MEDLINE, SCOPUS, and Web of Science. Search terms for relevant studies included the following: trabeculectomy AND (square OR triang* OR rectang* OR polygon* OR arc OR shape) AND flap. Results: Our initial literature search revealed 71 unique articles, six of which met our inclusion and exclusion criteria and were reviewed. Four articles reported the use of triangular flaps, one rectangular flap, one square flap, and two arc-shaped flaps. The data from each article were reviewed for the following: Surgical technique Early postoperative intraocular pressure reduction Final postoperative intraocular pressure reduction Postoperative complications Conclusions: A myriad of scleral flap shapes is utilized in surgical practice. Essentially all of the trabeculectomy procedures, regardless of scleral flap shape, achieved substantial reductions in IOP with similar success rates. However, due to the variability in surgical technique and lack of direct comparison, we cannot definitively conclude or deny that one flap shape is superior to another. We believe our review provides the most comprehensive analysis of scleral flap shape to date and highlights its importance in regulating aqueous flow, especially in the early postoperative period.